Eastgate Gardens. Taunton, Somerset

This imaginative and sympathetic
redevelopment of an industrial
town centre site (former tannery)
provides 97 flats and town houses
of mostly sheltered
accommodation with some starter
homes.

The project recreates the air of
tranquility associated with a
bygone age but is within a few
steps of the busy main street and
shops. The buildings are grouped
around a landscaped "square"
which contains a water feature fed
by a culverted stream (formerly
used by process water from the
tannery).

Some of the old tannery buildings
are listed and have been restored
and incorporated in the
development. The scheme makes
extensive use of traditional
materials and detailing and is
much appreciated by its residents.
The project has been the recipient
of a Local Authority design award,
a Civic Society award and has
been highly recommended for the
standard of its landscaping.